There are various reasons for interior design’s pivot toward warmer, earthy colors. Current trends spotlight two big desires among homeowners looking to buy or remodel: wellness-centered spaces and lived-in looks. Wellness is linked to nature, where earth tones originate. These hues also have a coziness that feels more inviting than others, contributing to that relaxed, lived-in look.

But before you go drenching the whole room in mocha and terracotta, check this out. Any kitchen can feel more inclusive and comfortable with elements of natural stone or ceramic. A few earth-tone tile ideas are a good place to start. 

Types of tile to consider for your kitchen remodel

Natural stone, sealed ceramic, or porous terracotta. Today’s tiles can be mined to retain their natural appearance or fabricated to pay tribute to any natural feature or color you like. It’s their shape, finish, and arrangement that have equal impact. Here are some configurations and formats to choose from:

  • Subway tile. A timeless kitchen classic that’s highly durable and easy to clean. The width and color of visible grout let you adjust how much definition and contrast the design has. Our Silver Travertine is a soft, comforting earth tone choice.

  • Stacked stone. Some stacked stone tile looks like top-quality masonry that could last for centuries. It’s perfect for structural interest and tons of texture–without a 300-year commitment. Our Rustic Gold is an earthy wonder made of natural slate.

  • Brick veneer. The earth tones trend is appearing in design schemes that may normally veer away from it, such as industrial. It commonly does so through the traditional look of brick. The Designery offers a Brickstone Red veneer that gives the warm and classic look you want.

  • Specialty shapes. Organic colors, homestyle patterns, or both come together. Penny tile is an artful way to add texture and craftsmanship to kitchens. Bianco Dolemite Moderno mosaic tiles offer something more unexpected. Get into polished white marble featuring earth-toned inlays. 

Are large stone slabs used for a backsplash considered tile?

In some instances, “slab” and “tile” will be used interchangeably. This is mostly due to their placement and installation. However, they’re not strictly the same. A large, seamless piece of stone as a backsplash is still often installed by an experienced tile setter, who is easily considered a stone setter as well. The use of mechanical fasteners in addition to adhesives is one way the processes differ. In either case, precision is a must. 

Other times, natural stone is cut into larger-format tiles. The design and expertise of the setter determine how the seams and joints appear. Today’s natural tile inspiration will include some slabs as well as tiles of all materials and sizes.

Earth tone tile ideas: Colors, stones, and application for kitchen remodels

Even white, modern kitchens can benefit from a bit of Mother Earth. From floor to backsplash, natural materials and warmer colors are essentials for 2026.

Subtle neutrals enhanced by cozy textures.

Earth tones can warm up a space without being technically warm in undertone. Textural, neutral tone tiles seen above still make a spacious kitchen feel layered and more secure. Surrounded by muted natural wood and glossy mined stone, it can give the effect of weathered driftwood or lichen-covered rock.

Taking natural tile inspiration from stone.

The planet’s palettes and patterns are the original blueprint of every great design, from shoreline to mesa. The marbled and speckled sandy patterns above bring modern earth tones to coastal kitchens.

Contemporary design with an organic element.

Natural rock is often much more nuanced than its dominant color. Shades of rust, ochre, and cream add organic perfection to cleaner lines and simpler designs. Large-format squares cut and set with precision, cast iron fixtures, and wood countertops are the best examples of how we can shape and refine nature for indoor use.

Grounding kitchen remodels with earth tone tile flooring.

Patterns in tile flooring can apply to the way they’re arranged and laid, or the art on them. Arranging mixed sizes and earthy shades makes white kitchens look more comfortable and effortless. 

Meanwhile, printed and painted motifs add character to kitchens. Try them with classic shaker or traditional cabinetry and hardware. 

Endless earth tone tile ideas await at The Designery.

The pros at your local Designery have much more to share. Coordinate natural rock tiles with your existing countertops, or build the heart of your home from the ground up.  

“My husband and I had the best experience using The Designery Lake Mary for our recent renovation…Chris and Summer were so talented and patient with me, even when I'd change my mind a thousand times while choosing all the cabinets, countertops, tile, and flooring. The virtual reality feature let us see and walk through our new space before the project even began…Their talent and attention to detail were beyond compare. We can't recommend The Designery enough.”

Leisa, Designery client

Find your nearest Designery showroom for natural tile inspiration aplenty.